Posted
March 20, 2025
Last weekend, 3D printers buzzed, sparks flew, and coders turned ideas into reality as Edsmen and professionals worked side by side with wheelchair users for the EmpowerED Maker Challenge—all with one goal: to create solutions that make everyday life more accessible.
Now in its second year, the EmpowerED Maker Challenge is the brainchild of Computer Science Teacher Anthony Mortimer, who wanted to give Edsmen studying engineering and computer science a hands-on opportunity to apply their skills in a way that truly matters. But he knew this couldn’t just be a classroom exercise—it needed to be real, personal, and impactful. That’s why he partnered with Youth Challenge, a Westlake-based organization that pairs kids with and without disabilities for adaptive sports and activities.
With more than 400 young people involved—including many Edsmen—Youth Challenge has spent decades fostering inclusion, friendship, and teamwork, making them a perfect partner for the EmpowerED Maker Challenge.
The organization introduced seven wheelchair users, each with a unique daily challenge, to teams of St. Edward students and professionals, including designers, engineers, and makers of all kinds. Together, they explored personal obstacles, exchanged ideas, and mapped out solutions. Then, it was all hands on deck: 48 hours of creativity, collaboration, and relentless innovation as teams worked tirelessly to bring their ideas to life.
Will Gallup, of Team Will, takes pride in living independently, but getting in and out of bed each morning requires assistance. That’s why he was thrilled when his team went the extra mile—literally—traveling to his apartment to measure the space and start designing a solution tailored to his needs. Inspired by Will’s determination, Team Will threw themselves into the challenge, pushing their skills further than they thought possible.
And Will’s story was just one of many.
Luke Arra, a senior and second-year participant, put it best: “It feels really good to put my skills to use, and I hope we can bring a lot of joy and utility to our teammate.”
In just two days, these teams turned concepts into life-changing devices:
“The energy and dedication is incredible,” shares Anthony Mortimer. “These students see firsthand how their skills and knowledge can make a difference. The weekend allows them to live out our school’s Holy Cross mission of becoming men with hope to bring.”
What sets this event apart isn’t just the technical ingenuity—it’s the human connection. As students fine-tune circuits, code apps, shape materials, and showcase their innovations, they realize these solutions aren’t just about function; they are about empowerment.
Video by Ryan Hammond '25 and Nate Sinchak '25
Hats off to the following St. Edward students, alumni, faculty, and staff for all of their meaningful work:
Thank you to our partner, Youth Challenge, and to our generous sponsors!
